Lockdown blues: Prayagraj witnesses spurt in suicides

Prayagraj: Incidents of suicides have been on the rise in Sangam city since Covid-19 outbreak and lockdown with two cases being reported last Friday. As many as 30 suicides were reported in the city lockdown.
Clinical psychology and psychiatry experts told TOI that fear, loneliness, anxiety and depression have been driving people to take the extreme step.
“According to a report compiled by a group of activists, suicide was the leading cause in 338 ‘non-coronavirus deaths’ in the country from March 19 to May 2. In Prayagraj alone, 30 cases of suicides took place between March 23 and May 28,” said Dr Ishanya Raj, clinical psychologist at Motilal Nehru Divisional hospital.
“Covid-19 is causing concern, stress, depression, anxiety and suicidal tendency among people all over the world. It is also impacting the psychological well-being of general public. Elders, students, healthcare professionals, females, labourers, people living in stress and those with chronic conditions are at higher risk,” she added.
“Studies conducted to find out reasons for people taking this extreme step during pandemic show that unpredictability, fear of getting infected, physical distancing, break in normal routine, lack of mental stimulation from social interaction, restrictions on movement are some of the main contributory factors,” said Dr Raj.
People must stay positive in this time and should find ways to ward off negativity. There are several tips one can follow.
“Everyone should practice yoga, meditation, do physical exercises like aerobics, walking or jogging at home, spend time with family, take care of children and elders, connect with relatives and friends, read, learn something new, pursue a hobby, finish pending work, schedule activities, and involve themselves in household responsibilities, she added.
“Writing down feelings or using any other creative form to express feelings, instead of focusing on fear are good ways. People should get good sleep, limit watching news, limit internet time,” Dr Raj added. “One should not hesitate in seeking professional help. Experts can help handle such situations,” said Dr Rajesh Paswan of the hospital. Dr Jayanath BP, consultant psychiatrist, district hospital, Kaushambi said, “The loss of jobs, reduced income and uncertainty about future are causing anxiety and distress. The immediate future plans of youth and budding professionals have been upset. Expert help is available for free in government hospitals and people facing depression or having suicidal thoughts should not hesitate to reach out to us.”